St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA offers glamping accommodations near Valley Park, Missouri at an elevation of 433 feet above sea level. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures often reaching 90°F and cold winters with occasional snowfall. Valley Park sits at the edge of the Ozark foothills, creating varied terrain for glamping experiences with access to both forest settings and riverfront locations within 30 minutes.
What to do
Kayaking at Lincoln Lake: Cuivre River State Park provides opportunities for paddling approximately 45 minutes from Valley Park. "The park has an awesome trail system around the lake, and it looks like you can rent canoes/kayaks in the summer (was not open in the winter)," notes Kyle R. who visited the park.
Horseback riding: Greensfelder County Park caters to equestrian campers with specialized facilities. "There's tie stalls under a roof and a round pen mounting blocks shower and bathrooms in camp. Electricity at each site and water nearby," writes Alicia B., adding that the "trails are well marked maps available."
Water recreation: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers multiple water activities within 30 minutes of Valley Park. "The park/campground rents paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes in addition to different kinds of bikes. There is a walking trail around the lake (4+ miles)," says Mats, who appreciated the variety of options.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort At Six Flags receives praise for its location. "We spent a weekend here because we wanted to be close to six flags. I swear this place was more fun!!! There's swimming, games, lots of activities," reports Mike T., highlighting the convenience for families.
Secluded tent sites: St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA offers more private spaces for tent campers. "Decent tent sites, standard ones are definitely more private than those with electric and water. Nice spot along the creek," mentions Danielle C., though she notes some challenges with "other campers cutting through our site throughout the night."
Year-round accessibility: Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park maintains camping availability through all seasons with adjusted amenities. "The campground is open year-round but the bathhouse with flush toilets closes November 1 and doesn't open until the spring. During the winter the only water spigot is available located near the camp hosts at site #36," explains Nancy W.
What you should know
Train noise concerns: Multiple glamping locations near Valley Park sit close to train tracks. "It is close to train tracks and highway, but didn't notice with AC on in the camper," notes Craig F. about his stay at Route 66 KOA. Another camper, Todd P., adds: "It will be even better when they invent silent trains."
Weather considerations: Pere Marquette State Park Campground offers glamping options with varying seasonal highlights. "In winter there are a lot of eagles feeding in the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers which meet at the park," mentions Joel R., providing insight into wildlife viewing opportunities outside summer months.
Site selection matters: When glamping at Babler State Park, site choice affects experience. "Sites 13-33 are popular open and sunny campsites with nice grassy areas between them. In contrast sites 52-75 are much more treed and have a private feel to them," explains Nancy W., noting site differences for those seeking shade versus sun.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Families enjoy water features at several glamping sites. At Jellystone, Nik B. observed the facilities are "well taken care of. People are friendly, has a nice and clean pool. Little shop with all sorts of stuff."
Activity passes: Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Resort at Six Flags offers entertainment packages for children. "They have a pool, bike rentals, dog park, movie night, basketball court, and more. You can bring your RV, travel trailer, tent camp, or stay in a cabin," notes Crystal H., highlighting the variety of options.
Wildlife viewing: Families can enjoy nature sightings at several parks. At 370 Lakeside Park, "You can see all kinds of wildlife in and around the lake- deer, bald eagles, pelicans, ducks, snakes," reports Annie C., making it ideal for nature-focused family glamping near Valley Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Glamping sites offer different electrical setups. At Greensfelder, Matthew H. reports, "Only sites 20-29 have electric and 28 can't be reserved...2-20 amp plugs and 1-30amp plug," adding that "site 29 only have 2-20 amp plugs no 30 didn't realized till we parked."
Water pressure: RVers note water system strengths vary by location. Susan L. found that at 370 Lakeside Park, "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!" This can affect shower and sink usage for those in RVs or glamping units.
Leveling requirements: Some glamping sites require additional setup work. At Jellystone, Jan S. noted, "The site was ok, tricky to level. There was a steep drop just past our steps, and not a lot of room to set up chairs, etc."
